McIntosh Unveils Special-Edition Wireless Speakers Honoring a Legendary Rock Band

The high-end audio brand introduces a tribute to its historic connection with the Grateful Dead.

A Classic Look with a Nostalgic Twist

McIntosh has long been known for its top-tier wireless speakers, blending high-fidelity sound with its signature design. The RS150 and RS250 models, recognized for their exceptional audio quality and premium aesthetics, have been a staple in the brand’s lineup for years. Now, McIntosh is launching special-edition versions that celebrate both its legacy and its deep-rooted connection to one of rock music’s most iconic bands.

A Tribute to a Historic Partnership

The limited-edition RS150 and RS250 speakers are a collaboration between McIntosh and the Grateful Dead, marking the band’s 60th anniversary. Their relationship dates back to Woodstock in 1969, where McIntosh’s amplifiers powered the legendary festival—an event that also featured a performance by the Grateful Dead.

However, their most famous collaboration came in 1973 with the creation of the groundbreaking Wall of Sound. This revolutionary concert sound system used 48 McIntosh MC2300 amplifiers, delivering an unprecedented 28,800 watts of power to drive over 600 speakers. The Wall of Sound changed live music forever, and these new speakers serve as a nod to that game-changing moment in audio history.

Familiar Sound, Fresh Design

While the Grateful Dead edition RS150 and RS250 retain the core features of their standard counterparts, they stand out with exclusive branding. The speakers prominently display the band’s name alongside their iconic skull-and-lightning-bolt logo, offering a unique aesthetic for die-hard fans.

Beyond the new visuals, these models maintain McIntosh’s distinctive design elements—glossy black finishes, glowing blue power meters, and the brand’s signature green logo. The RS150 remains a 120-watt mono speaker with Wi-Fi and Bluetooth connectivity, while the RS250 continues as a powerful 650-watt stereo speaker with expanded input options, including HDMI ARC and a phono input for turntables.

Premium Sound, Premium Price

As expected, these special-edition models come with a higher price tag. The standard RS150 and RS250 currently sell for $1,200 and $3,000, but the Grateful Dead 60th Anniversary editions are priced at $1,500 and $3,500, respectively.

For devoted fans of the band and serious audiophiles, these speakers offer a rare combination of high-fidelity sound and rock history. For everyone else, the standard versions might be the more practical choice.

The special-edition speakers are available now exclusively on McIntosh’s website.